Gaborone

Gaborone, estimated population 140,000 (1992), is the capital of Botswana. Nearby manganese and asbestos mines have led to industrial expansion. The city was founded circa 1890 by Gaborone Matlapin, an African chief.

The South African Development Community (SADC) makes its headquarters in Gaborone; the organization was formed in 1980 to increase economic cooperation among its members and reduce dependence on South Africa. Gaborone is the seat of the University of Botswana.